When should you prefer JSON handling (Cpanel::JSON::XS, JSON::MaybeXS), and when should you avoid it?

When working with JSON in Perl, choosing the right module can significantly enhance performance and ease of use. Below are considerations for using Cpanel::JSON::XS and JSON::MaybeXS.

When to Prefer JSON Handling

You should prefer using JSON handling modules such as Cpanel::JSON::XS and JSON::MaybeXS under these circumstances:

• Performance: Cpanel::JSON::XS is one of the fastest JSON modules available for Perl. It’s ideal when performance is critical, such as in web applications dealing with large amounts of data.
• Compatibility: JSON::MaybeXS allows you to switch between different JSON backends seamlessly. Use it when you want to support multiple backends while keeping your code simple and clean.
• Ease of Use: Both modules provide straightforward interfaces to encode/decode JSON, making them easy to use even for those new to Perl.

When to Avoid JSON Handling

There are certain situations where you may want to avoid using these modules:

• Simple Data: If you're only working with small, simple data structures and performance is not a concern, using built-in Perl data formats such as Storable or Data::Dumper may be sufficient.
• Advanced Features: Some advanced JSON features, such as custom serialization, might not be supported by these modules. If your use case requires this, consider alternative libraries.
• Dependency Concerns: In some environments, introducing new dependencies may be against policy or could introduce compatibility issues. In such cases, evaluate the necessity of using these modules against the potential risks.